With the forward corps a little banged up, the Tampa Bay Lightning called in a reinforcement as they recalled veteran forward Conor Sheary from the Syracuse Crunch. Nick Paul left the Lightning’s game against the Ottawa Senators after just three shifts while Anthony Cirelli missed a portion of the second period. While Paul was on the ice for the morning skate, Cirelli was not.
#GoBolts have recalled Conor Sheary from Syracuse ahead of tonight’s game against Ottawa, likely related to Nick Paul’s status, but we’ll see as #TBLightning will skate shortly
— Lightning Insider (@erikerlendsson.bsky.social) February 6, 2025 at 9:48 AM
Sheary, in the second year of a three-year contract, started the season with the Bolts, but was assigned to Syracuse on December 1st as he struggled to make an impact on the ice, appearing in just four games. Since joining the Crunch, his offensive game has flourished as he has posted 9 goals and 15 assists in 31 games at the AHL level.
He was on the ice skating with Paul and Zemgus Girgensons as the Lightning took their line rushes this morning prior to their game against the Senators. It was speculated that Tampa Bay might make a recall today due to the injuries they suffered in their last outing, and it looks like they opted for a veteran presence over a rookie such as Dylan Duke or Jack Finley.
Based on yesterday’s optional practice and this morning’s skate, Paul might be good to go after taking an awkward hit against the boards in the first period on Tuesday. Cirelli has not been on the ice, and could be a game-time decision. The severity of the injuries will determine how long Sheary will be with the Bolts. As he has already cleared waivers once this season, the Lightning can keep him on the roster for ten games or 30 days before they have to expose him to the rest of the league again.
It’s been a rough go of it as a member of the team since he signed as a free agent in the summer of 2023. Sheary has appeared in 61 games over the last two seasons and posted 4 goals and 15 assists during that time frame.
